KEY POINTS
- Community pharmacies legal health facilities under Nigerian law.
- ACPN backs limited diagnostic testing aligned with malaria policy.
- Pharmacists call for collaboration with laboratory scientists.
The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria has reaffirmed that community pharmacies are legally recognised health facilities, pushing back against claims questioning the scope of services provided within pharmacy practice.
In a statement jointly signed by its National Chairman, Ambrose Ezeh, and National Secretary, Omokhafe Ashore, the group responded to comments attributed to the President of the National Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria, Casmir Ifeanyi. The remarks had raised concerns about diagnostic activities carried out in pharmacy premises.
The pharmacists’ body said the criticism reflected a misunderstanding of Nigeria’s health policies and regulatory framework, stressing that pharmacy practice operates within clearly defined legal and professional boundaries.
Community pharmacies legal health facilities under law
Accordingly, the National Health Act of 2014 formally recognises community pharmacies as health facilities and places them under the oversight of statutory regulators. The association added that existing laws allow healthcare providers, including pharmacies and hospitals, to operate laboratory services once regulators properly register and license such units.
The ACPN noted that point of care testing, particularly the use of rapid diagnostic test kits for malaria, is actively encouraged by the Federal Ministry of Health. Confirming malaria before dispensing antimalarial medicines, it said, aligns with the National Malaria Policy and helps curb drug misuse and resistance.
“Community pharmacies play a critical role in safeguarding patients by ensuring rational drug use, especially for common conditions that account for a large share of outpatient visits,” the statement said.
The association said pharmacies without registered laboratory units must strictly comply with existing laws and professional guidelines, stressing that compliance—not overreach—defines acceptable practice
Community pharmacies legal health facilities globally
Addressing concerns about the structure of modern pharmacy outlets, the ACPN said the integration of limited retail or supermarket sections within some pharmacies follows internationally accepted models. Similar arrangements operate in countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States, where pharmacies combine professional services with access to health related consumer goods.
The group also talked about how pharmacists have helped to improve healthcare throughout the years, pointing out that many popular health and nutrition items came from community pharmacies.
Reaffirming its stance on collaboration, the ACPN described medical laboratory scientists as long-standing partners in healthcare delivery. It said interprofessional cooperation remains essential for strengthening Nigeria’s health system and protecting patient safety.
The association said it will continue to work with the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and regulatory councils to uphold good pharmacy practice and ensure compliance with national health standards.
